out of the blues

This bronze sculpture and its companion piece, "Into the Blues", were inspired by an acoustic, rural blues performance I had seen on TV that led to a quick abstract gesture drawing that led to the sculptures. The blues guitarist & singer’s curving, swirling forms contrast with the straight, slashing forms to suggest coiled up inner energy being released. The head thrown back in song emphasizes the release.

The best blues have a cathartic quality. In the musical expression of sorrow there is an emotional release that can lead to joy. Finding and putting that “joyful sorrow” into a piece is a delicate balance--a compelling challenge--that motivates me and compels me, to keep doing my work.